Your interview is winding down, and you’ve confidently handled all the recruiter’s questions. As the session nears its end, you’ll likely be asked, “Do you have any questions for me?” To strengthen your chances of landing the job, your answer should always be yes.
Having a set of questions ready to ask the interviewer shows that you’re genuinely interested, enthusiastic, and engaged—all traits that employers look for. Additionally, this is your final opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Aim to prepare four or five questions in advance. This way, if a couple are answered during the conversation, you’ll still have others to ask.
Avoid questions centered solely on what the company can offer you, such as salary or vacation time—those are best saved for when you receive a job offer. Steer clear of yes-or-no questions, as this information is often available on the company’s website.
While it’s fine to ask for clarification on certain topics, avoid revisiting anything that has already been discussed. You don’t want to give the impression that you weren’t paying attention. If you need some ideas, here are some thoughtful questions to ask during an interview:
1. What does a typical day in this role look like? This question helps you understand the day-to-day responsibilities of the position. The interviewer’s answer will give you insight into the required skills and experience, helping you determine if the role is a good fit for you.
2. How can I make a strong impression in the first three months? Asking this at the end of the interview shows that you’re eager to contribute positively to the company. The recruiter’s response will reveal what they expect from you early on and highlight key areas to focus on if you’re hired.
3. What training and growth opportunities are available? This question signals to the interviewer that you’re serious about your career and committed to long-term development within the organization. It also helps you assess whether there is room for career advancement in the role.
4. Where do you see the company in five years? This question offers insight into the company’s future direction and its stability, while also showing your interest in its long-term goals. You might also learn about any major upcoming projects.
5. How would you describe the company’s work culture? This is a great way to gauge the company’s environment and determine whether it aligns with your preferences. The recruiter’s response will reveal how the company prioritizes employee satisfaction, the benefits offered, and the overall work-life balance.
6. What do you enjoy most about working here? People enjoy talking about themselves, and this question can help build rapport with your interviewer. You’ll get a personal perspective on the company culture and may learn about the interviewer’s career path within the organization.
7. Can you tell me more about the team I’d be working with? This question gives you an understanding of the company’s structure, who you’ll be reporting to, and how the department functions. Learning about the team dynamics can also provide an opportunity to mention any relevant team experience you have, reinforcing your fit for the role.
Other valuable questions to consider include those about:
- Performance evaluations
- Challenges or opportunities facing the department or company
- Specific projects or initiatives the company is working on
If the interviewer hasn’t already covered it, a good way to close the interview is by asking about the next steps in the hiring process and when you can expect to hear back.